Fun Enrichment Games for Rabbits – A Guide to Keeping Your Rabbit Mentally Stimulated
Rabbits are intelligent, playful, and curious animals. Although they are often mistaken for low-maintenance pets, they require both physical exercise and mental stimulation every day. Without enough enrichment, rabbits can become bored, anxious, or destructive.
This guide provides easy, low-cost enrichment ideas that help rabbits express natural behaviors such as digging, foraging, chewing, and problem-solving.
Why Enrichment is Important for Rabbits
Daily enrichment activities support your rabbit’s:
- Mental stimulation and problem-solving ability
- Physical health through movement and exploration
- Natural instincts like burrowing and chewing
- Emotional well-being and reduced stress
- Bonding with humans and other rabbits
Rabbits that are mentally engaged are often healthier and more relaxed, especially in indoor settings.
Simple Enrichment Games and Activities
1. Toilet Roll Treat Dispenser
Fill a cardboard toilet roll with hay and a few pellet treats, then fold the ends closed. Your rabbit will roll and chew through the cardboard to access the food.
2. Forage Mats or Scatter Feeding
Scatter your rabbit’s pellets or chopped vegetables throughout their enclosure or on a safe mat. This encourages natural foraging behavior and slows down fast eaters.
3. Dig Boxes
Fill a large cardboard box or shallow plastic container with shredded paper, hay, or soil-free potting mix. Add small toys or treats to discover inside. This satisfies the need to dig without damaging carpets or furniture.
4. Cardboard Castle or Maze
Use empty boxes to build a cardboard “castle” with tunnels, cut-out doors, and multiple chambers. Rabbits love hiding and exploring enclosed spaces.
5. Towel or Blanket Hide-and-Seek
Hide small treats under folded towels or fleece blankets and let your rabbit sniff and dig to find them.
6. Hanging Greens
Tie leafy greens like parsley or romaine lettuce with string and hang them just above your rabbit’s nose level. This creates a gentle challenge and encourages stretching and nibbling.
Tips for Safe Enrichment
- Avoid plastic, staples, tape, or anything your rabbit might ingest
- Always supervise during new activities
- Use only untreated cardboard and natural materials
- Rotate toys and games to keep things interesting
- Introduce one new activity at a time to avoid stress
When to Offer Enrichment
- During playtime outside the enclosure
- As part of morning and evening routines
- On rainy or quiet days to replace outdoor time
- When introducing a new space or toy
Enrichment Works for All Rabbits
Enrichment benefits rabbits of all ages and breeds. Younger rabbits often enjoy more energetic games, while older or bonded rabbits may prefer quieter activities that involve sniffing, chewing, or gentle digging.
Even shy rabbits can learn to explore and engage when enrichment is introduced slowly and consistently.
Quick Supplies List
- Cardboard rolls and boxes
- Shredded paper or hay
- Towels or fleece fabric
- Leafy greens or veggies
- Natural rabbit-safe toys
- String or cloth for hanging items
